New Visa Rules for Czechs, Mexicans

Regulations Designed To Limit Refugee Claimants

Jul 19, 2009 Laura Steiner

Canada has introduced new measures requiring visitors from the Czech Republic, and Mexico to have visas. The regulations are designed to limit refugee claimants.

The new rules governing visas came into effect 12:01 July 14, 2009. The Czech Republic and Mexico were chosen because of a sudden rise in refugee claimants from those countries. The changes have put Immigration Minister Jason Kenney on the defensive.

Czech Republic Recalls Ambassador, Ponders Visa Restrictions

Protesting Canada’s move, officials in the Czech Republic have recalled their ambassador. In remarks published by CBC.CA Czech Deputy Foreign Minister Helena Bambasova defended her country’s actions calling it part of the diplomatic process: “It’s quite a normal part of the diplomatic process we are taking.”

Bambasova also revealed her government is considering placing visa restrictions on Canadian diplomats, and businesspeople. The Czech Republic is unable to unilaterally act on such a threat because it is a member of the EU (European Union). There are suggestions they may consult other EU governments.

The EU has responded saying it plans no further action. In comments published on CBC.CA spokesperson Michele Cercone issued a statement saying the commission wishes to further consult with Canadian officials: “We expect measures introduced by Canada to be only temporary, and we hope t hat full visa free travel between the EU and Canada is re-established soon.”

As of 2007, Canada has had over 3,000 refugee claimants from the Czech Republic. The claims come largely from Roma who allege human rights abuses by the Czech government.

Kenney Defends Visa Moves, Mexico Retaliates

Immigration Minister Jason Kenney defended the changes. In remarks published by the BBC.CO.UK he argued the adjustments would eliminate delays: “All too often people who really need Canada’s protection find themselves waiting in a long line, waiting for months and sometimes years to have their claims heard.” He also argued refugee claims from the Czech Republic make no sense because they could move to other countries within the EU (European Union).

Mexico has retaliated by forcing Canadian diplomats, and senior officials to get visas for their visits. The announcement came from the country’s Foreign Minister Patricia Espinosa as she met with her US, and Canadian counterparts at trilateral talks. Espinosa revealed in comments published by cbc.ca she let her country’s displeasure be known at the measures: “We stated with a great deal of respect, but also very firmly that we were in disagreement with this measure, that it was in our opinion that it is not something to help to resolve the problem that Canada is trying to resolve.”

The Mexican government does not require visas for Canadian tourists who number approximately 1.3 million/year. Canadian Foreign Minister Lawrence Cannon assured his counterparts Kenney will work together with Mexican officials to find a solution.

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Immigration Minister Jason Kenney